Burundi Achieves Major Milestone with Jiji Hydroelectric Plant Inauguration
Burundi has successfully commissioned the Jiji hydroelectric power plant in Bururi province, marking a significant step toward energy self-sufficiency for the East African nation. The facility is the first of two hydroelectric installations scheduled to become operational this year.
The combined projects, including the upcoming Mulembwe plant, will deliver 49.5 MW of installed capacity and generate 235 GWh annually. The $320 million investment was supported by multiple international financial institutions, including the African Development Bank, European Investment Bank, World Bank, and European Union.
The new facilities will provide electricity access to approximately 15,000 households, 7,000 businesses, and 1,700 manufacturing operations across Burundi. The projects align with broader regional efforts to develop clean, sustainable energy infrastructure throughout Africa.
Edward Claessen, Head of EIB Regional Hub for East Africa, emphasized that the financing supports the European Union’s strategy for sustainable African infrastructure development while contributing to necessary decarbonization efforts for business growth.
Source: energycapitalpower.com
